LAST SEASON: The Islanders made the state tournament for the first time since 2008. The team finished second in the regular season, as well as the league tournament, and was fourth at the district tournament. The team finished with a 15-9 overall record.

STRENGTHS: “We have so much experience on this year,” said coach Susan McKay. “We have 10 seniors this year, and the core of the team is the same as last year. I think we have more passion and focus this season, and a lot of height.”

“I told them last year, you don’t really know what playing at state is like, and what it will do to you, until you do,” said McKay. “It can be rattling, but I was very proud of how they played and the new goal is to place at state.”

“Offense,” said senior Lorial Yeadon. “We have a lot of big hitters and blockers.”

FOCUS: “Consistency,” said McKay. “Last year we did really well against strong teams, but sometimes against teams that weren’t quite as good, we didn’t play well. We can’t discount anyone and have to play hard all the time.”

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